lacquer

n. 1 varnish made of shellac or a synthetic substance. 2 substance sprayed on the hair to keep it in place. v. Coat with lacquer. [french lacre *lac]

n. A varnish, consisting of a solution of shell-lac in alcohol, often colored with gamboge, saffron, or the like; -- used for varnishing metals, papier-mache, and wood. The name is also given to varnishes made of other ingredients, esp. the tough, solid varnish of the Japanese, with which ornamental objects are made.